9 Superb ‘Lesser-Known’ Films Of 2015

It’s coming up to the end of the year, and what a year it’s been. We’ve had the king of the comic-book world topple the box office, Avengers: Age of Ultron, and another mega hit in the form of Jurassic World. However, now the dust has settled, there are some forgotten gems that were released this year that may not have seen the box office returns like these summer blockbusters. Here is a list of the lesser-known films release this year that deserve more attention.

I have identified “lesser-known” by the film’s box office return. If the film has made less than $50 Million (boo-hoo) worldwide at the box office it’ll feature on this list. All box office figures, except for The Voices, are from BoxOfficeMojo.com

1. Ex Machina ($36 Million)

If you know me, you know I love robots. So when I heard that there was a film with a minimal cast and the lead is a female robot, potentially the first sentient machine, it piqued my interest. On top of that it was being directed by the excellent screenwriter Alex Garland, so I was sold. Believe the hype, as there’s not a wasted second in this paranoia-driven, thought-provoking master-class of film.

2. Dope ($17 Million)

Now, at surface value this film doesn’t look good at all. In reality, you get a modern day Ferris Bueller’s Day Off with a splash of social and racial criticism. Funny throughout, interesting at even it’s worst moments, and then delivers an important message to cap it off.

3. Me and Earl and the Dying Girl ($9 Million)

I have never cried so much at a film in my life. Full stop. This film makes you cry like a baby and then forces you to cry some more. In between bouts of tears you’re laughing like a crazy person. I cannot recommend this film enough, and it’s a real shame it hasn’t even reached the $10 million mark.

4. Steve Jobs ($24 Million)

One of those films that had tons of problems behind the scenes, with casting and recasting, however, it somehow manages to still be excellent. One of three five-star review’s we’ve given out here on Third Act Film, it’s got our seal of approval.

5. Danny Collins ($5 Million)

Such a lesser-known film, even we didn’t cover it. This film will have you see-sawing between laughing and crying. Al Pacino delivers one of his best performances, which is a tall order indeed. Tragic characters, they always get me teary-eyed.

6. Self/less ($12 Million)

So you’re rich, you’re old and you have it all. How about having a new body? How about Ryan Reynolds body? That’s the premise to this film, being able to trade in your body for a newer model. Of course, complications are involved.

It’s clearly not Ryan Reynolds year, another stunner of the film he stars in comes in the form of The Voices. Watch Reynolds as he goes mad, with great dark humour and interesting-to-say-the-least type characters.

9. Wild ($52 Million)

Okay, I cheated a little, but what’s $2 million! Oh, more than the results of The Voices and Predestination combined you say? Yes, you’re right, erm, shut up! Anyway, strangely, this tops the list in terms of box office earnings. Fall in love with Reese Witherspoon, and learn a thing or two about cross country trekking!